Wayfarers Australia
A travelling choir shaped by learning, inclusivity and song
Founded in Canberra in 1997 by Judith Clingan AM, Wayfarers Australia brings together singers across countries and generations to perform choral music, music theatre and workshop programs in Australia and overseas.
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Discover Wayfarers
Community Singing
Music is something everyone can embrace
In addition to our regular rehearsals and performances, we also hold semi-regular workshops designed so children, teenagers and adults can experience more than standing in rows and singing notes. Participants may sing, act, move, play recorders or percussion, explore music history, and help build a theatrical world together.
The choir's touring life has always been a form of exchange. Wayfarers arrive as performers and teachers, but also as guests: listening, learning, sharing meals and making music with local communities.
Explore Wayfarers workshopsJudy's Approach
Singing belongs at the centre of a child's education
Judy Clingan's life in music education places singing, musicianship, imagination and ensemble work at the heart of child development. Her practice reflects a belief that children learn musicianship and life skills through voice, listening, movement, story, theatre, instrument playing, memory, discipline and joy.
This philosophy is visible in the Wayfarers model. Younger singers learn from older singers, adults are reminded of a sense of wonder and joy from children, and the rehearsal room becomes a place where musical skill and social confidence grow together.
In practice, this means every voice matters. A new singer can be carried by the ensemble while they grow, and an experienced singer is asked to support the sound, the story and the people around them.
Concert Life
Performances with a purpose
Our concerts have ranged from early music and folk-influenced repertoire to large choral works and original music theatre. Wayfarers' performance style is shaped by Judy Clingan's broad musical world: choral singing, early instruments, theatre, visual design and education.
A performance tour usually carries a core of short choral pieces from Western choral traditions, then expands into larger dramatic works, children's operas, recorder ensembles, dance, puppetry and improvised local workshop outcomes.
Every concert is made possible by volunteers. Singers, directors, organisers, families and friends contribute rehearsal time, transport, hosting, front-of-house work, promotion and practical care.
The choir's public work is also outward-looking. Ticket proceeds are regularly donated to charity, keeping the act of singing connected to service beyond the performance itself.